"Our kids of have been extremely focused this week," Malzahn said. "You can tell we are a little fresher. The week off definitely helped us physically and mentally."

The Tigers will face an Alabama defense that enters the Iron Bowl allowing just 9.9 points per game, second best in the Southeastern Conference. Alabama is allowing a league-best 70.4 yards rushing and 154.6 yards passing per game, which is second best in the SEC.

"They (Alabama defense) have talent at every position," Malzahn said. "They've got a lot of speed and they play very physical. They are where they are supposed to be (in alignment). They make you earn everything. That's our challenge as an offense, to be balanced and make some plays."